Claims of AI Manipulation
Shortly before the commencement of UFC Freedom 250, social media platforms were flooded with screenshots of a post purportedly authored and subsequently removed by UFC commentator Daniel Cormier. Both Cormier and the individual mentioned in the images, Eric Trump, have categorically labeled these screengrabs as fabricated.
The alleged tweet, which was archived by an X user, contained the following statement:
«I'm probably going to get a lot of flak for bringing this to light, however I refuse to stay silent. The UFC is a sport that I am deeply passionate about I will not tolerate this type of insider behavior. Shame on anyone trying to ruin this beautiful event.»
The Allegations and Response
The viral images depicted a supposed conversation on X between the son of President Donald Trump and Cormier. According to the images, Trump sought insider details regarding the UFC Freedom 250 matchups. Specifically, the text suggested Trump inquired: «Are any of the fights tomorrow rigged?» and noted his intention to place a bet on the bout between Diego Lopes and Steve Garcia.
Cormier quickly responded to the situation, questioning the judgment of those who accepted the legitimacy of the images. Eric Trump echoed this sentiment, asserting that the evidence was comprised of «fake, AI generated screenshots» and clarifying that no such communication between him and the commentator had ever occurred. However, Trump did acknowledge that a post had existed, noting that Cormier had apparently removed it.
To further address the spread of potentially misleading content, Trump amplified a post from the Trump Organization's communications director, Kimberly Benza, which emphasized the dangers of misinformation.
Potential Account Compromise
During the event, further suspicious activity occurred on Cormier’s account. Links promoting a Trump-themed cryptocurrency appeared alongside the message «The Masks Are Off.» This suggests that the commentator’s social media account may have been compromised by third parties.
This incident serves as the latest complication during the UFC’s presence in Washington, which has already been marked by weather-related delays and the brief detainment of middleweight champion Sean Strickland following a fan event altercation.